Protecting Little Smiles in 2019
December 19, 2018
Protecting a child’s smile is important not only for the health of their smile at a young age, but for the lifetime longevity of their smile. Good oral health habits start early and can provide a foundation for lifelong habits. Your dentist can help guide your child on how to best brush and floss their teeth. Your dentist can also provide important preventive care that can protect their smile against potential harm. If harm does come (often in the form of tooth decay, tooth damage, or gum disease), your dentist can help treat it before it sets the smile up for trouble in the long run. The team at Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO can help you learn how best to protect your little one’s smile.
Dental Sealants
Children tend to be at a higher risk for tooth decay than adults. This is often the case because children can lack the motor skills to effectively keep their teeth clean. Children also have a proclivity for sweets that may increase their risk of tooth decay. To offset some of this risk, dental sealants can protect teeth. Your dentist can apply a very thin biocompatible layer onto the surfaces of the teeth. This layer will act as a barrier against bacteria trying to attack the teeth’s enamel. Sealants typically last for a decade.
Exams & Cleanings
Just like for adults, it is recommended that children visit the dentist at least twice a year for an exam and cleaning. Doing so can keep any potential issues from becoming big problems. Routine cleanings remove bacteria from the smile that your child may be missing during brushing and flossing. Keeping up with regular dental visits when your child is young can set a good precedent for dental visits when they are older.
Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride varnish is the application of a tooth-enriching mineral to the surfaces of the teeth. Fluoride can help strengthen the tooth’s enamel making it more able to withstand bacterial attacks.
Get Your Child’s Smile Ready for 2019
Our team can help you protect your family’s smiles in the new year. To schedule a consultation, call Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.